2023 GMC Yukon

The 2023 GMC Yukon remains a compelling option in the full-size SUV segment next to the likes of the Cadillac Escalade and Chevrolet Tahoe as it manages to find the middle ground between these two rivals. It offers consumers a premium SUV experience in the USA without coming across as too gaudy. Other GMC Yukon competitors include the Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia which are a bit more compelling rivals. The 2023 Yukon is based on the aforementioned Tahoe with only the visuals and standard specifications being different. At its core, this is a Tahoe with some glitzy bits fitted inside and out. It aims to please those who wish to turn heads while driving down the street, but without the fanfare you would expect from the likes of the Escalade. Despite this, it is still equipped to tackle varying terrains, especially if you fit the all-wheel drive system with the two-speed differential. This large car is available with a naturally aspirated 5.3-liter V8 for the SLE, SLT, and AT4 trims. The flagship Denali and Denali Ultimate source power from a larger 6.2-liter V8 . Both of these powertrains are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission with rear- and all-wheel drive options. Those looking for more twisting power can opt for the Duramax 3.0-liter in-line straight-six option.

The price of the GMC Yukon begins at an MSRP of $57,400 for the SLE with the 5.3-liter V8 engine and 2WD - an increase of more than $5,000 over last year's SLE. Similar increases apply to the rest of the trims. The SLT costs $64,100 with the same motor and drivetrain. Switching out either for the Duramax diesel engine adds $995. For 4WD, add $3,000 to the bill.

The AT4 starts at $70,705 with standard 4WD and the 5.3-liter V8. Opting for the 6.2-liter requires an additional $2,620. The Denali with 2WD retails for $72,805. Changing out the default turbo-diesel engine for the 6.2 gas V8 on the Denali incurs a $1,500 penalty. The 4WD-only Denali Ultimate has an MSRP of $93,500 with the turbo-diesel engine, with the 6.2 gas V8 adding $1,055 to that. These prices all exclude a destination charge of $1,895. The GMC Yukon can cost well over $100,000 for a fully loaded Denali Ultimate with many option boxes ticked.

Although the GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV, you'll find it's an impressively easy car pilot once you become accustomed to its size. Magnetic Ride Control is optional on all cars except for the Denali Ultimate, on which it is included as standard. This makes for a plush and floaty ride and while there is no way to eliminate body roll through tight corners, the Yukon with this suspension system does a fair job of keeping things right side up. Both gas engine options offer punchy performance and responsive power delivery to the wheels, but this comes at the cost of poor gas mileage in comparison to its turbocharged rivals. The turbodiesel doesn't offer the same level of performance or refinement as the gas options, but it boasts very good fuel consumption estimates and great towing torque. The highlight of the package is the 10-speed automatic transmission, which seamlessly delivers power to the rear or four wheels. All-wheel-drive models benefit from a two-speed BorgWarner transfer case that gives the Yukon some true off-roading capabilities.

Our review of the new GMC Yukon SUV shows that it tackles a tough segment with conviction, as it offers the perfect blend of versatility and luxury with a broad range of trims. The powertrain offerings are compelling when looking at the performance figures, but both Ford and Toyota have downsized turbocharged V6 engines that can match the Yukon's performance while offering better gas consumption. All trims offer a good number of standard comfort, convenience, and safety features but if you want to enjoy all of the bells and whistles, things start to get expensive as the Yukon encroaches on Escalade territory. The Denali is nice, but the sensible money goes to the high-value SLT. Or opt for the Chevy Tahoe if features and value are at the top of your priority list and not a badge. Considering its visual presence, interior space, overall comfort, and general capability, the Yukon is still a great full-size SUV, despite its thirsty old-school gas engines.

The AT4's long list of standard and optional features will make you feel confident the SUV can handle just about any scenario but as we previously noted, we'd like to see GMC offer the AT4 with the inline-six diesel. That would be our ideal choice, but since it doesn't exist (yet), opting for the bigger gasoline-powered V8 is worth the extra money. We'd add one of the two Premium Packages, or - at the very least - the Technology Package for the added driver assists, and leave the rest as is. If you require additional space, there's always the Yukon XL, but the standard-length version is probably big enough for a majority of buyers. Kitted out with the AT4 Premium Plus Package and 6.2 gas V8, you're looking at $81,875, destination included.